ST. PAUL, Minn. — When the doors opened for Beach Night with a feels-like temperature of 7 degrees, it marked the beginning of a unique celebration featuring purple aloha shirts for the first 250 students. Inside, the party was already in full swing with delicious appetizers and an open bar. A crowd of St. Thomas men’s basketball alums gathered for a private reception, reminiscing about the past and looking forward to the unveiling of a new $175 million arena.
One of the key figures in the room was Johnny Tauer, Ph.D., a former Division III coach and psychology professor who now leads the Division I basketball team. Despite the changes in his career, Tauer still resides in the same house just minutes away from campus. As the team prepared to play for first place in the Summit League, the excitement in the room was palpable.
The St. Thomas Tommies’ journey from being kicked out of Division III to making a bold leap to Division I is a story filled with challenges and triumphs. Hindered by a ban on NCAA Tournament participation until 2026, the team is forging its path in the competitive world of college basketball.
The school faced a period of transition and uncertainty after being removed from the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. However, a unique opportunity arose when the Summit League extended an invitation for St. Thomas to join, paving the way for a rapid shift from Division III to Division I status.
With new facilities, increased staffing, and a growing athletic department, St. Thomas embraced the challenges of becoming a Division I program. While the team’s achievements are commendable, including a strong performance in their first year of Division I competition, they continue to face restrictions on postseason appearances until certain benchmarks are met.
Despite these limitations, the Tommies have shown remarkable progress on the court, emphasizing teamwork and strategic play. Their unconventional offensive approach has earned them recognition and success, showcasing their potential to compete at the highest levels.
As Johnny Tauer leads the team through this unprecedented transition, he reflects on the values of perseverance and dedication that define their journey. With a deep-rooted connection to St. Thomas and a passion for basketball, Tauer navigates the challenges of coaching at the Division I level with humility and determination.
As the university prepares to unveil a new state-of-the-art arena, the spirit of the Johnny Tauer Basketball Camp remains unchanged. From humble beginnings to a thriving program, St. Thomas embodies resilience and ambition in the face of adversity, setting a new standard for collegiate athletics.
In the midst of uncertainty and change, St. Thomas remains steadfast in its commitment to excellence and innovation, proving that with vision and determination, anything is possible in the world of college sports.